Consummate
entertainer provides spectacular performance in tribute to Disney music. (Review
by Keith Millar)
Jonathan Roxmouth
is a consummate entertainer. He proves this yet again with a spectacular performance
in his tribute to the world of Disney music, Disney On Stage.
Currently on at
Durban’s unique Rhumbelow Theatre in Umbilo the show features an eclectic
selection from the countless hit songs which have graced Disney movies over
many years.
Resplendent in a sparkling
purple jacket, Roxmouth makes the stage his own as he performs with great style,
panache and talent. He displays great charm and has a wonderful rapport with
his audience as he chats to them about Disney and his music. His anecdotes are
filled with humour and self-deprecating wit - while the trade mark Roxmouth
double-take is very much in evidence.
The Rhumbelow stage
is splendidly draped with gold lame curtains and is excellently lit for this
production. Big screens on either side of the stage display colourful Disney images
and add the enjoyment of the show.
Songs which were
made famous by Disney heroes, as well as those by the villains and sidekicks are
heard during this show. Among others we heard You’ve Got a Friend in Me from Toy
Story, Proud of Your Boy and A Whole New World from Aladdin, Hakuna Matata, Can you Feel the Love Tonight and Be Prepared
from The Lion King as well as the
classic Supercalifragilisticexpilalidocios
from Mary Poppins, which included an
enthusiastic audience sing-a-long.
Roxmouth donned a
conch shell bra and a red wig for a hilarious
version of Ariel’s Part of this World
from The Little Mermaid. He performed Under
the Sea and Kiss Da Girl by
Sebastian the Rastafarian crab in the same movie.
His instrumental
version of Let It Go from Frozen
played on the piano was superb. My daughter- in-law said it was far better than
the over-rated radio edit version.Jonathan Roxmouth must be rated as one of the country’s leading musical
theatre talents at present. We are fortunate that he chooses the Rhumbelow Theatre
to launch his one-man cabaret styled shows. Previously, he entertained us with Gilbert & Sullivan, Liberace and Broadway Musicals.
Disney On Stage, his latest production, is aimed at children from 6 to 86. It is fabulous entertainment and will not disappoint. All you have to do is release your inner child and sit back and enjoy.
Disney On Stage, his latest production, is aimed at children from 6 to 86. It is fabulous entertainment and will not disappoint. All you have to do is release your inner child and sit back and enjoy.
Disney On Stage runs at the Rhumbelow Theatre Durban until
April 10 with performances in Pietermaritzburg on April 11 and 12. Times of the
shows may vary depending on the load shedding schedule and it is best to check
when booking.
Tickets R120 (R100
for pensioners and children under 12. Booking is essential). Book at
Computicket or phone or email Roland for bookings on 082 499 8636 or roland@stansell.za.net Take food
picnic baskets. The venue opens 90 minutes before show for picnic dinner. Braais
will be available for those who wish to cook some meat. – Keith Millar